Two fined for failure to update microchip details

Two dog owners have been prosecuted for failing to ensure their dogs microchip details were up to date.

Under The Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2015, dog owners must have their pet microchipped, and for all details to have the most recent information with contact details for a dog’s keeper.

Charanjit Khera of Bloxoms Close, Braunstone Town, pled guilty under Single Justice Procedure for failing to update the details of her dog’s chip following a 21 day notice. She was fined £146, with a £30 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

Danielle Hawthorne of Packer Avenue, Leicester Forest East, failed to enter a plea and was found guilty under Single Justice Procedure for the same offence. She was fined £220, with a £30 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

Both were prosecuted after being served notice for failure to update their dog’s chip, despite the 21 day period of notice and seven additional days to prove the required action had been taken.

Updating a dog’s microchip details can be easily done over the phone or online and can cost as little as £4.95 depending on the database.

Jon Wells, Group Manager for Regulatory and Leisure Services, said:

“We’re disappointed that we have had to take this action against individuals in the district. Our Environmental Services team are happy to help anyone struggling with the process to ensure their dog can be identified.

“This law has now been in place for nearly a year and it’s very important that people make sure there are complying with the law. We will continue to take this course of action when necessary.”

The Council hosted a microchipping amnesty on Wednesday 06 April for dog owners without a chip or up-to-date details. Trained staff were on hand to chip dogs and update details for free.

For more information on dog law visit www.blaby.gov.uk/dogs or call 0116 275 0555.